Medically assisted weight loss is a weight loss program performed under the supervision of a doctor or medical health professional. A doctor will work with the patient to determine any underlying health concerns that could be impacting their weight and build a plan to assist the patient in losing weight. Medical conditions will be factored in, with the weight loss program being tailored to the individual’s needs and existing conditions. A doctor can look at all facets of the patient’s life including their age, current weight, exercise and lifestyle, sleep, food intake and any other factors that will impact the patient’s ability to lose weight. Medical weight loss with the help of a doctor, nutritionist or other health care professional is intended to be maintainable and sustainable for long-term health and well-being. Unlike a quick fix diet, a medically assisted weight loss program will see slower weight loss over a longer period of time, with the goal being around education and habit changes that will lead to weight loss.

Assisted weight loss is safer and healthier for the participant as it followed with the help and supervision of a trained medical professional, as opposed to following the latest fad diet. A medical professional can provide guidance within the patient’s existing health or medical concerns to ensure they aren’t going to be doing damage to the body that will cause further issues down the line. An overly aggressive exercise program can lead to injuries, whereas fad diets can cause issues with internal organs in some individuals. An assisted weight loss program will ensure that the participant is examined and tested ahead of the start of the program to determine their eligibility for the program. Once medically cleared, the participant will be monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure no additional medical concerns arise as a result of the weight loss plan. Medically assisted weight loss is also proven to have longer lasting results. Diet followers often find they gain the weight back after they finish the diet, whereas a medically assisted weight loss program focuses on changing habits and creating sustainable lifestyle changes that the participant can continue for years to come, so their weight loss is maintained.

An assisted weight loss program can help you by working with your current lifestyle, habits, age, weight and medical history to build a program unique to you. By considering all factors of your unique personality and situation, the weight loss program will be fairly easy for you to execute by making small changes in your day-to-day life that will have short-term impacts on your weight loss goals and long-term impacts on the sustainability of maintaining weight loss. An assisted weight loss program is built and followed with the assistance of a medical professional, or a team of professionals, who will ensure that the program is best for you to achieve your goals in a safe and healthy manner. It will also ensure that any allergies, injuries or pre-existing medical conditions are factored into the program, along with the individual’s likes, dislikes and interests.

Losing weight is going to be different for everyone and it is important you understand what your unique weight loss plan should look like to help set expectations and goals. Your doctor can be a great partner in your weight loss journey, and it is recommended that you discuss your weight loss plans with your doctor prior to starting a weight loss plan. Some questions to ask your doctor are:

• What should my ideal weight be? Your doctor can help you determine the best weight for you based on your age, height, lifestyle and health.

• How long should I expect it to take me to reach my goal? Your doctor can work with you on a realistic timeframe to reach your goal, ensuring you are losing weight safely.

• How losing the weight impact my health? Weight loss has many health benefits, knowing what those can be at the start can help push you to reach your weight loss goals.

• How will any of my existing medical conditions impact my weight loss goals? Your doctor will be able to let you know if a medical condition could negatively affect your ability to lose weight or pursue an exercise program.

Your weight matters and having an assisted weight loss program may help you achieve your goals. Speak with your doctor today and get your health back on track. If you are interested in learning more about our services or would like to book an appointment, call us or schedule online! We Serve Patients from Mount Pleasant SC, Irmo SC, West Ashley SC, Murrells Inlet SC, Columbia SC, Bluffton SC, Sullivan’s Island SC, Isle of Palms SC, Daniel Island SC, Charleston SC, James Island SC, North Charleston SC, Pawleys Island SC, Myrtle Beach SC, Hilton Head SC, and Hardeeville SC.